James Pearce has delivered a reassuring four-word transfer update that will calm nerves among Liverpool supporters.

James Pearce has played down speculation suggesting Curtis Jones could leave Liverpool in the closing days of the January transfer window, describing the reports as ‘wide of the mark’.

With fewer than 72 hours to go before Monday night’s deadline, there is still no indication of any late business at Anfield, despite Liverpool’s mounting injury problems in defence, with Jeremie Frimpong the latest senior player ruled out.

Concerns among supporters were heightened on Friday evening after Fabrizio Romano reported on X that Inter Milan were engaged in ‘direct club-to-club talks’ with Liverpool over a potential loan-to-buy move for Jones, sparking fears that Arne Slot’s squad could be further depleted before the window shuts.

Pearce dismisses talk of Jones departure

However, after being asked by fans for clarity on social media, Pearce moved quickly to shut down the rumours. The Liverpool correspondent insisted that suggestions of a late exit for the midfielder, who turned 25 on Thursday, were misguided.

Responding to one supporter on X, Pearce said the reports were ‘wide of the mark’. In another reply, he went even further, branding the speculation ‘nonsense’ and stressing that the Toxteth-born midfielder is ‘not going anywhere’.

Selling Jones now would make little sense

This is not the first time Jones has been linked with a move away this month. Tottenham Hotspur were previously credited with an interest, although that talk died down once Spurs completed the signing of Conor Gallagher.

While Liverpool’s midfield is currently their strongest area in terms of depth, it would make little sense for the club to part with a regular first-team player so late in the window. Jones has featured in 29 of Liverpool’s 35 matches this season, and the limited time left to source a replacement only strengthens the argument against any sale.

In addition, Liverpool’s defensive injury crisis has already forced several midfielders, including Jones, to fill in at the back. Losing him would further restrict Arne Slot’s options in the centre of the pitch and complicate squad management during a demanding run of fixtures.

Although the 25-year-old has faced criticism from sections of the fanbase online, he has consistently received praise from former players and pundits. Passing the 200-appearance mark for Liverpool is no small achievement, and it underlines his importance to the squad.

For now, supporters can feel reassured. With Pearce — one of the most reliable voices on Liverpool matters — firmly rejecting the rumours, fears of Curtis Jones leaving Anfield this month appear unfounded.